Map of Central African Republic – Regions, Cities & Geography

Explore the Central African Republic with this interactive map and geographical guide to its capital, Bangui, seven administrative regions, principal towns, rivers and neighbouring countries. Located inland in central Africa, the country extends from tropical forests in the southwest to more open savanna landscapes in the north. Use the map to understand how settlements, river systems and major transport routes fit together.

Interactive Map of the Central African Republic

Zoom in to locate Bangui, regional towns, rivers and mapped roads, or zoom out to compare the country's position with its neighbours. Some map labels use French or locally recognised place names.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Where Is the Central African Republic?

The Central African Republic lies between the Sahel and the Congo Basin, without direct access to the sea. Chad is to the north; Sudan and South Sudan are to the east; the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Republic of the Congo are to the south; and Cameroon is to the west. The country's central position explains its name, but it should not be confused with the wider region of Central Africa.

Much of its terrain consists of elevated plateaux, with river valleys and wooded plains. The southern landscape is generally wetter and more forested than the northern savannas. The official languages are French and Sango, and a map may display different spelling conventions for rivers and settlements.

Seven Regions and 20 Prefectures

The country was reorganised into seven regions and 20 prefectures under the 2021 administrative reform. Older references may show 16 prefectures, and digital map boundaries may not reflect every administrative change. The following table groups the prefectures under the newer regional structure.

Major Cities and Towns on the Map

Bangui, the national capital and largest urban centre, lies beside the Ubangi River, facing the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Berbérati is an important western city, while Bouar is a road and regional centre toward Cameroon. Bambari lies in the central-eastern part of the country, and Bria is farther northeast.

Other locations worth finding include Bossangoa in the northwest, Bangassou in the southeast, Boali northwest of Bangui and Ndélé in the north. At broad zoom levels, small settlements and local roads may not be labelled; zoom in to explore individual areas.

Rivers, Landscapes and Natural Features

The Ubangi (Oubangui) River forms part of the southern boundary and is a major tributary of the Congo River system. The Mbomou River also helps define sections of the southern border. Northern river systems drain toward the Chari basin, illustrating how the country spans different watersheds.

The southwest contains rainforest and the Dzanga-Sangha protected areas, known for tropical forest habitats and wildlife. The Boali Falls are a notable natural landmark northwest of Bangui. Farther north, woodland and savanna become more prominent. Mount Ngaoui, near the western border, is generally identified as the country's highest point.

Roads, Transport and Map Use

Road links radiate from Bangui toward western towns and neighbouring countries, while longer routes connect more distant prefectures. The country has no seaport, so cross-border transport connections are important. Bangui M'Poko International Airport serves the capital. Road conditions, crossings and available services can vary, and mapped roads should not be treated as confirmation that a route is currently passable.

For travel planning, consult current official advice and local transport information. This interactive map is most useful for geographical orientation, locating settlements and understanding distances and routes in broad terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of the Central African Republic?

Bangui is the capital, located on the Ubangi River in the south.

Which countries border the Central African Republic?

It borders Cameroon, Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo.

How many regions does the Central African Republic have?

The newer administrative structure contains seven regions, including the capital region.

How many prefectures are there?

There are 20 prefectures under the 2021 reform. Older maps and reference materials sometimes list 16.

Is the Central African Republic landlocked?

Yes. It has no coastline and relies on inland and cross-border transport routes.

What river runs past Bangui?

The Ubangi River, also written Oubangui, flows beside Bangui and forms part of the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Where is Dzanga-Sangha?

The protected forest area is in the southwest, near the borders with Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo.

Can this map be used for driving directions?

It can help identify roads and places, but it does not verify access, safety or current road conditions. Check up-to-date local and official information.

About This Map

This interactive OpenStreetMap view is provided for general geographical reference. Zoom and pan to compare cities, administrative areas and natural features. Map labels and boundaries can vary as the underlying map data is updated.

Disclaimer: This map is for general reference only. Locations, boundaries and transport details may change. Verify important information with official sources.